Derry reservoir water level at just 71 per cent

Shaun Kelly, a plant manager for NI Water, said water levels at the Altnaheglish reservoir in Banagher, fell to 71 per cent.

The facility, between Dungiven and Feeny, feeds Derry through the Caugh Hill water works.

Mr. Kelly said: “This recent dry spell, which has been breaking records, coupled with more people at home using water, has resulted in a significant drop in our water levels. Some of the impounding reservoirs that serve the Co. L/Derry area, I have not seen this low in years. For example, Altnaheglish Reservoir is sitting at 71 per cent. We have not seen this reservoir that low in June since 1995.”

NI Water has asked people to act now to protect water supplies, following confirmation from the Met Office that this spring was the second driest since the beginning of the twentieth century. 

“The recent rain we have experienced is simply not enough to bring the levels back up. We would need a period of reasonably wet weather before we would see a significant change in the levels. There are a number of steps NI Water can take to alleviate the stress on reservoirs, including a hosepipe ban.  However, the key to conserving water is public action now.  How we all use our water now will have a massive impact on our water levels during the summer months and whether a hosepipe ban will be required.”